Tackling the Overberg's Youth Work Readiness Challenge

Education is important but it doesn’t guarantee employment or success. It’s the attitude, drive, entrepreneurial thinking and problem solving ability that goes with it that does. Lofty words perhaps, particularly in a climate of economic flux, uncertain career prospects, and a largely disillusioned youth; even more so for those living in abject circumstances in rural communities.

About the Biggest Deal Challenge

So, in order to actively address the problem, the Theewaterskloof Municipality has rallied together with the private sector to create the Biggest Deal Challenge, work ready youth development programme.

A great deal of preparation has gone into creating the 7 fun, business related tasks that will challenge young people from all walks of life to step out of their comfort zones and become courageous and confident entrepreneurs.

For young people aged 14-18

It really doesn’t matter if participants are in or out of school, as long as they have the attitude and drive to do something that is bigger than their environment and circumstances; and of course they must reside or go to school in the Theewaterskloof district. This includes the towns Bot River, Caledon/Myddleton, Genadendal, Grabouw, Greyton, Riviersonderend, Villiersdorp and Tesselaarsdal.

Like most things in life it’s a team effort

Participants must organise themselves into teams with a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 6 members, pick a business idea, and sign up. Thereafter, teams will receive a letter officially welcoming them to the challenge. They will also get to select from a list of business savvy mentors, an advisor if you will, to guide them at any stage of the process. There’s plenty of support and guidance throughout the initiative.

When it takes place and how to apply

Applying is easy. There’s no entrance fee. Application forms Form can be obtained from local schools, local municipal offices or completed on the Biggest Deal Challenge website. The closing date for applications is 17 May 2014. The challenge itself kicks off on Monday, 24 June 2014 and runs until the end of the school holidays. The winning team will receive a R10 000 cash prize.